Big！

"Big!" by Tim Hopgood is a children's book that explores the theme of growth and self-discovery through a simple yet engaging narrative. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

• Growth and Development: The book celebrates the journey of growing up, encouraging children to imagine and aspire to become bigger and stronger.
• Self-Discovery: It touches on the idea of self-discovery, where a young boy wonders about his own size and potential.

Plot Summary

The story revolves around a little boy who dreams of becoming big. He imagines himself as big as a bear, an elephant, and other large animals, sharing the excitement and worries that come with such thoughts. The book is characterized by its simple and repetitive text, which makes it accessible to young readers. The narrative is accompanied by Tim Hopgood's stylish illustrations, adding a visual element to the story that enhances its impact.

Critical Reception

• Illustrations: The book's illustrations have been praised for their style and ability to engage young readers. Tim Hopgood's artwork brings the story to life, making it a visually appealing read.
• Awards and Recognition: While specific awards are not mentioned in the provided sources, the book's nomination for ALSC Notable Children’s Books and its selection as a Best Book of the Year by School Library Journal indicate positive critical reception.

Additional Context

It is worth noting that Tim Hopgood has also written "My Big Book of Outdoors," which is a non-fiction title that explores the wonders of the natural world through fully illustrated pages. This book, though not directly related to "Big," showcases Hopgood's ability to create engaging and educational content for children.

Overall, "Big!" by Tim Hopgood is a delightful and imaginative book that encourages children to think about their own growth and potential, making it a great addition to any children's book collection.